ST THOMAS, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) candidate Rosemarie Shaw has emerged victorious in the Morant Bay Division by-election, defeating Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) opponent Winston Downie in a closely contested race.
Preliminary results from the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) show Shaw securing 2,096 votes, representing 51.4 per cent of the ballots cast. Downie garnered 1,978 votes, accounting for 48.6 per cent.
Voter turnout for the by-election was relatively low, with the EOJ reporting a preliminary turnout of 37 per cent.
As news of the win broke, jubilant PNP supporters flooded the streets of St Thomas in celebration. Veteran PNP politician Fitz Jackson described the victory as a momentum-builder for the party, stating, “This is a springboard to a sweep in the upcoming General Election.”
The by-election results are seen as a critical barometer of voter sentiment ahead of the national polls. The closely fought contest underscores the high stakes for both major political parties as they prepare for the General Election.
More updates are expected as the final vote count is confirmed.

